This is a fantastic episode, providing an excellent mix of nostalgia, humour, and an emotional depth which a previous reviewer identifies as being new to Dr. Who. The interplay between Rose and Sarah Jane is top-notch, while K-9 remains steadfastly "disco". ("Suggest mistress engage running mode...") We've often wondered (at least I have) what happens to the old assistants after their travels, and this episode offers a look at what travelling with The Doctor does to someone's life. It made me want to go back and brush up on how The Doctor and Sarah Jane parted. Rose's charming naïveté is gently highlighted (did she really think someone as old as The Doctor had always travelled alone?) while reinforcing for her the value of her travels.
34 Reviews
Old friends from the 70s make a welcome return!
michduncg-130 April 2006
Warning: Spoilers
What a fantastic episode, perhaps the most emotional yet with the return of Sarah Jane Smith (& K9) tugging at the heart strings - or maybe I am just a touch sentimental! But I think that was what Russell T Davies and other had in mind! For those of us in the UK who tend to judge one another's age based on the Dr Whos assistants we remember and who was our favourite Blue Peter presenter (Leslie Judd of course!), Sarah Jane Smith was the best assistant ever, always trying to understand what was going on around her and never frightened to try and take on the Daleks, the Cybermen etc. These were the best days of Dr Who in my eyes, and Sarah Jane was a great part of that. Once she left things never were the same.
As a child I never realised the chemistry between her and Tom Bakers Dr, but that was immediate in last nights episode with David Tennant. Elizabeth Sladen looked absolutely amazing, stunning even! Still fresh faced, wide eyed and inquisitive. What a fantastic return! And it was great to see K9 as well. Her appearance was more than just pure nostalgia as it serves to make Rose realise the transient nature of her relationship with the Dr. The initial bitching and jealousy soon gives way to an understanding between herself and Rose The rest of the episode, fantastic as it is with Anthony Head playing an evil headmaster, kind of takes a back seat to all this. But it is still a terrific episode, with Head playing his part as a an alien human eating bat with great relish! The body count is high as teachers and pupils alike are preyed upon, and thats before the kids are fed their brain enhancing chips! I don't think Jamie Oliver would be welcome in this school kitchen! The ending is very poignant, and may not be what you want! But I guess it would have been a nostalgia trip too far to see Sarah Jane rejoin the Doctor, but hopefully she can show up occasionally in the earth bound episodes, just as Mickey and Roses Mum seem to!
As a child I never realised the chemistry between her and Tom Bakers Dr, but that was immediate in last nights episode with David Tennant. Elizabeth Sladen looked absolutely amazing, stunning even! Still fresh faced, wide eyed and inquisitive. What a fantastic return! And it was great to see K9 as well. Her appearance was more than just pure nostalgia as it serves to make Rose realise the transient nature of her relationship with the Dr. The initial bitching and jealousy soon gives way to an understanding between herself and Rose The rest of the episode, fantastic as it is with Anthony Head playing an evil headmaster, kind of takes a back seat to all this. But it is still a terrific episode, with Head playing his part as a an alien human eating bat with great relish! The body count is high as teachers and pupils alike are preyed upon, and thats before the kids are fed their brain enhancing chips! I don't think Jamie Oliver would be welcome in this school kitchen! The ending is very poignant, and may not be what you want! But I guess it would have been a nostalgia trip too far to see Sarah Jane rejoin the Doctor, but hopefully she can show up occasionally in the earth bound episodes, just as Mickey and Roses Mum seem to!
The return of Sarah Jane
MaxBorg898 January 2011
School Reunion marks a turning point in the revived Doctor Who series, which some had, up to this point, viewed as a reboot of the original series, rather than a straight continuation (despite sly allusions to past adventures and the Doctor's previous incarnations). As of this episode, the show is proud to acknowledge and pay tribute to its rich history, starting with a story that, in true DW fashion, deftly mixes warmth, excitement and silliness.
After the future (New Earth) and the past (Tooth and Claw), this time it's contemporary London that needs help, again: a race called the Krillitane, under the command of the enigmatic Mr. Finch (Anthony Head), has infiltrated a school, using children as tools to construct a powerful weapon. Also undercover in the same facility is the Doctor who, assisted by Rose and Mickey, poses as a teacher to find a solution to the planet's latest problem. Lucky for him, he can count on some extra help, in the unexpected shape of former companion Sarah Jane Smith (Elizabeth Sladen) and her mechanical pet K-9 (voiced by John Leeson).
While remaining a great adventure - save for some customary sub-par effects shots - in its own right, this spooky story written by Toby Whithouse works best as a treat for seasoned Who fans: the Doctor, now officially described as the tenth incarnation of the character, must deal with the sudden return of familiar faces. And what faces: Sladen, a favorite among past companions, is a joy to watch, especially when she compares experiences with Rose and brings up the inevitable question: how long before the Doctor moves on again? Leeson's K-9 is also one of those adorably silly ideas that work perfectly (and to increase the nostalgia effect, the original prop is used in the episode). As for the new characters, the Krillitane are an intriguing creation, and Head (at one point considered to play the Doctor in the ill-fated 1996 TV movie) has a lot of fun playing bad, complete with a clever in-joke at the expense of Buffy the Vampire Slayer fans.
In short: the Doctor, Sarah Jane, K-9, aliens and the guy who used to play Giles (or, staying in BBC territory, the Prime Minister in Little Britain). What's not to love about that?
After the future (New Earth) and the past (Tooth and Claw), this time it's contemporary London that needs help, again: a race called the Krillitane, under the command of the enigmatic Mr. Finch (Anthony Head), has infiltrated a school, using children as tools to construct a powerful weapon. Also undercover in the same facility is the Doctor who, assisted by Rose and Mickey, poses as a teacher to find a solution to the planet's latest problem. Lucky for him, he can count on some extra help, in the unexpected shape of former companion Sarah Jane Smith (Elizabeth Sladen) and her mechanical pet K-9 (voiced by John Leeson).
While remaining a great adventure - save for some customary sub-par effects shots - in its own right, this spooky story written by Toby Whithouse works best as a treat for seasoned Who fans: the Doctor, now officially described as the tenth incarnation of the character, must deal with the sudden return of familiar faces. And what faces: Sladen, a favorite among past companions, is a joy to watch, especially when she compares experiences with Rose and brings up the inevitable question: how long before the Doctor moves on again? Leeson's K-9 is also one of those adorably silly ideas that work perfectly (and to increase the nostalgia effect, the original prop is used in the episode). As for the new characters, the Krillitane are an intriguing creation, and Head (at one point considered to play the Doctor in the ill-fated 1996 TV movie) has a lot of fun playing bad, complete with a clever in-joke at the expense of Buffy the Vampire Slayer fans.
In short: the Doctor, Sarah Jane, K-9, aliens and the guy who used to play Giles (or, staying in BBC territory, the Prime Minister in Little Britain). What's not to love about that?
Thought provoking return for some old friends
nickpink29 April 2006
Past incarnations of the DrWho story have featured returns of previous Doctors and also of previous companions, the best of these to date being the five doctors.
School Reunion, however is the first of these that really looks at the situation from the companions view point and what emerges is a story that tingled with emotion and the actual plot line of aliens taking over a school pales into the background as we watch Sarah-Jane and Rose's mixed emotions in what is essentially the traditional Girl meets Aien, loses Alien, meets Alien again but he's met someone else, loses Alien again ! A story I am sure we can all relate to in our daily lives.
Highlight has to be Elizabeth Sladen's magnificent return, A shame we don't see much of her these days as this episode clearly shows she really is a fantastic actress and I hope that, (if she wants) we see her in something new very soon.
A must see Episode !!
School Reunion, however is the first of these that really looks at the situation from the companions view point and what emerges is a story that tingled with emotion and the actual plot line of aliens taking over a school pales into the background as we watch Sarah-Jane and Rose's mixed emotions in what is essentially the traditional Girl meets Aien, loses Alien, meets Alien again but he's met someone else, loses Alien again ! A story I am sure we can all relate to in our daily lives.
Highlight has to be Elizabeth Sladen's magnificent return, A shame we don't see much of her these days as this episode clearly shows she really is a fantastic actress and I hope that, (if she wants) we see her in something new very soon.
A must see Episode !!
Closure for Sarah Jane
fdcox30 April 2006
I was worried about this episode. Sarah Jane Smith has always been my favorite Dr. Who assistant and didn't want the new producers to trample on my feelings about the character (the way 'Star Trek Voyager' did when they brought back the character of Kes for a one-off episode). I needn't have been concerned though, it was wonderful. That's the thing about this new Dr. Who incarnation, it's so much more emotional than the old version. Perhaps it's not surprising. The new producers grew up with the show like the rest of us. We're all older and we want something with a bit more depth than just the same old face-off between the Doctor and the Daleks, the Cybermen etc. (although we want that too). As a result, Elizabeth Sladen got to act in a way that she never did in the old series (and didn't she look GREAT). I loved that little scene in the café where Sarah Jane talked about how much traveling with the Doctor had meant to her and what it had been like to give it all up. I also loved the final scene where she got to go inside the Tardis again, and the moment when she thanked the Doctor for all her experiences with him. She might have been speaking for all of us.
Sarah Jane Smith 30 years on, excellent and heart warming
Sleepin_Dragon13 August 2015
I think I looked forward to this episode more so then any other of the series, simply because of the return of Elisabeth Sladen, and i'm afraid that her being in it distracted me from everyone else, even the site of a suited and booted Eugene Washington.
Mickey calls in Rose and the Doctor because something is very wrong at the local school, the Doctor teaches, Rose becomes a dinner lady, where she witnesses an accident with a colleague and some cooking oil. The children are well behaved and super intelligent, so clearly something is wrong. Sarah Jane finally gets to tell the Doctor off for leaving her alone for so long, but it's not long before K-9 is introduced and the team take on the Krilitane species.
Seeing Sarah Jane was a hugely emotional moment, my definite favourite classic series companion, it was ridiculous how amazing she looked, 60 years old and very beautiful. It was great that she became the first companion to question the Doctor about life after travels with him. Great scene where we discover the Doctor dropped her off in Aberdeen instead of Croydon.
The Krilitane are a little bid dodgy I guess, I doubt we will see them again. Anthony Head's performance as excellent. It was flawed I guess but Lis's performance was good enough to give her her own spin off series, and on that alone it gets a 10.
Mickey calls in Rose and the Doctor because something is very wrong at the local school, the Doctor teaches, Rose becomes a dinner lady, where she witnesses an accident with a colleague and some cooking oil. The children are well behaved and super intelligent, so clearly something is wrong. Sarah Jane finally gets to tell the Doctor off for leaving her alone for so long, but it's not long before K-9 is introduced and the team take on the Krilitane species.
Seeing Sarah Jane was a hugely emotional moment, my definite favourite classic series companion, it was ridiculous how amazing she looked, 60 years old and very beautiful. It was great that she became the first companion to question the Doctor about life after travels with him. Great scene where we discover the Doctor dropped her off in Aberdeen instead of Croydon.
The Krilitane are a little bid dodgy I guess, I doubt we will see them again. Anthony Head's performance as excellent. It was flawed I guess but Lis's performance was good enough to give her her own spin off series, and on that alone it gets a 10.
Television at its very best.
Translation-11 May 2006
Warning: Spoilers
To my shame, I have not caught all the "new" Dr Who adventures, but, as a regular viewer of the show as a child in the Seventies, I watched this episode in a spirit of curiosity. I was certainly not prepared for the strongly emotional experience it proved to be. By the end of this programme - for me, one of the most powerful pieces of television I have seen in years - I was in floods of tears, and I am crying now as I write this, days later. It was truly wonderful to see Sarah Jane and little K9 again, and it was so moving to hear the Doctor and Sarah Jane talk of their time together, of their original parting, and of the roads that both had travelled since. Their final scene almost tore my heart out, and I don't really see how the producers of this show, who have evidently made characterisation a priority, could really rise much higher. First class acting honours go to Elisabeth Sladen, who, reprising her role as Sarah Jane, almost thirty years after her original appearances, not only gave a fantastic performance but looked absolutely stunning, and to David Tennant, who brought a new depth to his role as the Doctor. This episode really made a mark on me and, silly as it sounds, I strongly suspect that the memory of it will remain with me forever. It may only be science fiction, but the themes explored - love, loss, and mortality - really are universal. On a hopeful note, it would be really, really nice if K9 and Sarah Jane got their own series.I know it was tried unsuccessfully in the early 1980's but these days, with a different approach, who knows?
Old friends in a welcome return
djarmhp20 May 2006
This could so easily have been a disaster. How many times have we heard the phrase, 'You can't go back'? When I heard that Sarah Jane and K9 were returning I couldn't see how they were going to fit in with the new series. They slotted in as if they'd never been away! The power of the emotional subtext and Sarah Jane's anger at having been left was quite breathtaking at times. Even better was the sparky relationship between Sarah Jane and Rose which was hilariously played out in a scene where the two were trying to outdo each other with the monsters they'd seen. It was telling that Rose had never thought about life after the Doctor. Sarah Jane was showing her the future and she was obviously concerned by it. The plot paled into insignificance with all the issues raised but Anthony Head was a great villain in his telling cameo. Taken with the following episode, 'The Girl in the Fireplace' this is the Doctor growing up and starting to acknowledge the real effect he has on his friends and companions.
Just proves what science fiction can do.
peter-keenan30 July 2006
Warning: Spoilers
I always thought that science fiction had it in it, after reading some of the best by Niven, Le Guin et ALU., but this episode of Dr Who just proved it once again. It is exceptionally emotional - from Sarah Jane's wistful "I waited for you ..." to then be told that the Time Lords were no more, and that the Doctor was the last of his race. Then the Doctor telling Rose "You can travel with me for the rest of your life, but I can't travel with you for the rest of mine", to the final telling scene, when Sarah Jane decides to stay behind, and the Doctor (brilliant, brilliant David Tennant) picks her up in his arms -"MY Sarah Jane!!". It just broke my heart; yes, there is love here. The best one yet, and I think the best Doctor (sorry Tom), it is not afraid to explore the issues of life and love and mortality, or even immortality. Oh, and a great story too.
Affirmative Reaction...
Xstal4 December 2021
A group of progressive teachers and dinner ladies take over a London school, but the Doctor and Rose embed themselves to make sure they're playing by the rules (obviously they are not!). Two old friends (past companions) from long ago are encountered on the way, the Doctor beams with pleasure and joy but Rose has nothing good to say (until later once they've bonded). When the Head is finally challenged he is defiant, they will remain, but the Time Lord is having none of it, and neither's Sarah Jane (or her dog).
Old School Chum
southdavid13 August 2020
This might be a little controversial, but I didn't really care for this episode of Doctor Who that much.
The Doctor (David Tennant) and Rose (Billie Piper) infiltrate a school that Mickey (Noel Clarke) has identified as having unusual things going on. He is correct, as the faculty have been supplanted by a race of batlike aliens called The Krillitanes - led by Mr Finch (Anthony Head). But the regular tardis-team are not the only ones to notice the changes at the school as former companion Sarah Jane Smith (Elizabeth Sladen) is also there, posing as a journalist.
I feel like much this episodes logic and story is sacrificed in the belief that seeing Sarah Jane and K9 again will be enough. For me, it's not - I started watching Doctor Who with the McGann film and then "Nu-who" so although I do have some appreciation of what's come before, the nostalgia buzz is not there. This is not to say that Sladen isn't excellent, she is and Sarah Jane is a great character and at some point I'm going to watch the Sarah Jane spin off show to get more appreciation of her. I hate K9 though, the grating voice, the ill-defined skill set, and he's a laser gun? This seems like the antithesis of what the gun hating Doctor would have.
The Krillitanes are an odd effect. They're not badly done, but they're more cartoony than they should be. There is one striking bad effect though, with Head and one of the aliens staring down on the Doctor in a Café, with the sky behind him betraying the composite nature of the shot. The story relies on contrivance to reach its conclusion and doesn't get enough out of the casting of Anthony Head. It's not awful, just a bit bland. That said, the dialogue scenes are really good, as Rose gets a glimpse of the future and Sarah Jane talks about trying to come to terms with life after the Tardis.
Add on extra points if you watched Doctor Who in the 70's, but for me, it's an underwhelming experience.
The Doctor (David Tennant) and Rose (Billie Piper) infiltrate a school that Mickey (Noel Clarke) has identified as having unusual things going on. He is correct, as the faculty have been supplanted by a race of batlike aliens called The Krillitanes - led by Mr Finch (Anthony Head). But the regular tardis-team are not the only ones to notice the changes at the school as former companion Sarah Jane Smith (Elizabeth Sladen) is also there, posing as a journalist.
I feel like much this episodes logic and story is sacrificed in the belief that seeing Sarah Jane and K9 again will be enough. For me, it's not - I started watching Doctor Who with the McGann film and then "Nu-who" so although I do have some appreciation of what's come before, the nostalgia buzz is not there. This is not to say that Sladen isn't excellent, she is and Sarah Jane is a great character and at some point I'm going to watch the Sarah Jane spin off show to get more appreciation of her. I hate K9 though, the grating voice, the ill-defined skill set, and he's a laser gun? This seems like the antithesis of what the gun hating Doctor would have.
The Krillitanes are an odd effect. They're not badly done, but they're more cartoony than they should be. There is one striking bad effect though, with Head and one of the aliens staring down on the Doctor in a Café, with the sky behind him betraying the composite nature of the shot. The story relies on contrivance to reach its conclusion and doesn't get enough out of the casting of Anthony Head. It's not awful, just a bit bland. That said, the dialogue scenes are really good, as Rose gets a glimpse of the future and Sarah Jane talks about trying to come to terms with life after the Tardis.
Add on extra points if you watched Doctor Who in the 70's, but for me, it's an underwhelming experience.
Who says you can't go home again?
redbeard_nv20 October 2006
Warning: Spoilers
Not since the classic "Five Doctors", which turned out to be a massive jam session of remembrance and crossed destinies, has an episode of the series been so welcome in it's reunion and so heartfelt in its emotion.
Given the repeated visits to modern day England, an encounter like this was bound to happen, and I personally was so glad to hear it would be with Sarah Jane Smith and trusty, slightly rusty K-9. Granted seeing Buffy and coffee commercial staple Anthony Stewart Head chew up the scenery as the evil version of Dean Vernon Wormer (Animal House) is a blast, it is Elizabeth Sladen's portrayal of one of the Doctor's most headstrong and non-plussed companion is a sheer joy to watch from her catching first sight of the TARDIS to her farewell to a "man" she could never come to admit she loved is a joy to behold and a special gift to the many Whovians around the globe who still remember their first encounter.
Thanks to the Beeb and we love you Elizabeth!! We Yanks want to see so much more of you!
Given the repeated visits to modern day England, an encounter like this was bound to happen, and I personally was so glad to hear it would be with Sarah Jane Smith and trusty, slightly rusty K-9. Granted seeing Buffy and coffee commercial staple Anthony Stewart Head chew up the scenery as the evil version of Dean Vernon Wormer (Animal House) is a blast, it is Elizabeth Sladen's portrayal of one of the Doctor's most headstrong and non-plussed companion is a sheer joy to watch from her catching first sight of the TARDIS to her farewell to a "man" she could never come to admit she loved is a joy to behold and a special gift to the many Whovians around the globe who still remember their first encounter.
Thanks to the Beeb and we love you Elizabeth!! We Yanks want to see so much more of you!
Sarah Jane and K-9 were this episode's saving grace.
Otter_6 December 2018
Warning: Spoilers
In my personal opinion, a large part of why this episode is rated the way it is is because some people have their nostalgia goggles on.
Sarah Jane and K-9 were fabulous and had an extremely welcome return. It's just such a shame she and Rose were pitted against each other the way they were. Writing two female characters as all of a sudden being extremely petty, jealous, and catty over a man is hardly revolutionary. And why? Neither character had reason to be so awful to each other, I can only assume it was played for laughs but really it was just cringey. It certainly wasn't particularly likeable, especially on Rose's part... and you'd think she'd need all the help she could get on that front. Also - how awful to make a point of saying that The Doctor had never once mentioned Sarah Jane.
However, it was very good to see the Doctor's "aftermath" in the lives of companions, and Rose's warranted worry about it. Every one of Sarah Jane's scenes with The Doctor were touching and highly watchable - and it was just lovely to see that she still tries to make a difference in the world. K-9 was an absolute delight too, and I remember just adoring him when I first watched this as a child. Smith's last "trading in for a new model" remark was very sad and to be honest, a bit unnecessary in my opinion. I'm glad she and K-9 have each other. Elisabeth Sladen was an amazing actress.
The plot and creatures were... okay? The characters (by which I mean Sarah Jane, K-9, and The Doctor) were definitely the only thing I was invested in, personally.
The Otter gives this 7/10.
Sarah Jane and K-9 were fabulous and had an extremely welcome return. It's just such a shame she and Rose were pitted against each other the way they were. Writing two female characters as all of a sudden being extremely petty, jealous, and catty over a man is hardly revolutionary. And why? Neither character had reason to be so awful to each other, I can only assume it was played for laughs but really it was just cringey. It certainly wasn't particularly likeable, especially on Rose's part... and you'd think she'd need all the help she could get on that front. Also - how awful to make a point of saying that The Doctor had never once mentioned Sarah Jane.
However, it was very good to see the Doctor's "aftermath" in the lives of companions, and Rose's warranted worry about it. Every one of Sarah Jane's scenes with The Doctor were touching and highly watchable - and it was just lovely to see that she still tries to make a difference in the world. K-9 was an absolute delight too, and I remember just adoring him when I first watched this as a child. Smith's last "trading in for a new model" remark was very sad and to be honest, a bit unnecessary in my opinion. I'm glad she and K-9 have each other. Elisabeth Sladen was an amazing actress.
The plot and creatures were... okay? The characters (by which I mean Sarah Jane, K-9, and The Doctor) were definitely the only thing I was invested in, personally.
The Otter gives this 7/10.
Early contender for best of series
movieman_kev3 May 2006
The good Doctor and Rose go undercover at a modern-day private school, (Who as a teacher, Rose as a cafeteria server) at the behest of Rose's boyfriend, Mickey, who tips them off that something is not quite right there. To divulge any more of the plot would be robbing you of some of the brilliance of this episode, which as I wrote in my comment for last weeks episode, features the return of old companions Sarah Jane and K-9. That reason alone made me anticipate this particular episode for a good while before it actually aired. And it does NOT disappoint in the least and although I liked the previous two episodes of this series quite a bit indeed, this one just one-uped both of them by far. At turns, thrilling, humorous, and yes even touching, this is Doctor Who at it's best. On a side-note it's rumored that K-9 might get his own series sometime in the future, but I can't vouch for if it will be good or rubbish.
My Grade: A+
My Grade: A+
Doctor Who welcomes back Sarah Jane Smith
darrenhf5 October 2006
Warning: Spoilers
School Reunion features a so-so plot about some aliens using school children to becomes all-powerful, but the real story here is about the meeting of two old friends, the Doctor and Sarah Jane Smith. This is a story about love and loss and the need to move on. It is beautifully acted by David Tennant as the current Doctor and Elisabeth Sladen who makes an indecenter return as Sarah Jane. If there is anyone who grew up at the time that she played alongside Jon Pertwee and Tom Baker then they will have loved her then and they will love this episode. It's funny and exciting and nostalgic and just about the best thing that this new reinvention of the series has done.
Satisfying Nostalgia Piece
Theo Robertson30 April 2008
Is DOCTOR WHO a show for children ? Oh that's a tricky question . Die-hard fans like myself will point to stories like The Seeds Of Doom that are so shockingly scary that there's no way it can be described as a children's programme . That's the problem with TORCHWOOD which is indeed a silly unsophisticated show whose idea of " adult drama " seems to be composed saying the f word a couple of times whilst shoehorning some lesbian snogging in to an underdeveloped storyline . At least DOCTOR WHO knows its target audience which is something the whole family can enjoy
School Reunion is a story the whole family can enjoy . An alien race called Krillitanes have infiltrated a comprehensive school and are using it as a bridgehead to take over the world . We've all been to school and some of us hated it more than others . This is the beauty of DOCTOR WHO because after seeing this episode you'll be reminded of how some teachers you remembered came across as being inhuman monsters . If you're still young enough to go to school Monday mornings will never be the same again and you'll be hoping for a blue police box to materalise in the playground
It's also an episode that works on more than one level . Children will enjoy the setting while adults who watched the show in the mid 1970s will remember Sarah Jane Smith . She breaks in to the school at night and meets the Doctor , a scene that is strangely haunting and powerful . I was never all that keen on Sarah Jane from the classic series but Elizabeth Sladen can certainly act and she shows her acting skills when lamenting that the Doctor had forgotten her . There's also some amusing bitching between Rose and Sarah Jane . Add to this some scary imagery of the Krillinates and you've got one of the best episodes of the resurrected DOCTOR WHO . Even Noel Clarke as Mickey is good and how many times has someone said that ?
School Reunion is a story the whole family can enjoy . An alien race called Krillitanes have infiltrated a comprehensive school and are using it as a bridgehead to take over the world . We've all been to school and some of us hated it more than others . This is the beauty of DOCTOR WHO because after seeing this episode you'll be reminded of how some teachers you remembered came across as being inhuman monsters . If you're still young enough to go to school Monday mornings will never be the same again and you'll be hoping for a blue police box to materalise in the playground
It's also an episode that works on more than one level . Children will enjoy the setting while adults who watched the show in the mid 1970s will remember Sarah Jane Smith . She breaks in to the school at night and meets the Doctor , a scene that is strangely haunting and powerful . I was never all that keen on Sarah Jane from the classic series but Elizabeth Sladen can certainly act and she shows her acting skills when lamenting that the Doctor had forgotten her . There's also some amusing bitching between Rose and Sarah Jane . Add to this some scary imagery of the Krillinates and you've got one of the best episodes of the resurrected DOCTOR WHO . Even Noel Clarke as Mickey is good and how many times has someone said that ?
The Return of Sarah Jane Smith!
wetmars5 August 2020
The return of a familar face.
MrFilmAndTelevisionShow18 March 2021
Warning: Spoilers
I have no idea whose companion Sarah-Jane was (obviously the Doctor's but which one?) but I remember watching the Sarah Jane adventures as a wee lad and her return was a nice little bit of nostalgia. The episode itself was very good indeed. I liked the villains they were very original not in looks but in back story/origin story not bad at all.
Truly excellent episode
Jandora8 December 2007
Warning: Spoilers
I saw the very first Dr Who when I was twenty-three and have loved it ever since. It was very much intended as a children's programme then and I was slightly ridiculed for liking it so much. There was a time when a very irritating chief executive of the BBC decided that he - and therefore the people who paid his salary via the BBC tax - did not like SciFi and Dr Who disappeared for sixteen years.
I have, belatedly, just seen this episode. It is really excellent. The main story is really just a vehicle to (re)introduce Sarah Jane. The acting was superb and really touching. The "goodbye" to Sarah Jane was so well acted, it made, I suggest, more eyes than mine a little damp.
Incidentally, this poor lonely Dr Who has a grand-daughter - Susan. Unless, of course, she perished with the last of the Time Lords! I certainly don't remember any reference her being mentioned when the Time Lords died.
I have, belatedly, just seen this episode. It is really excellent. The main story is really just a vehicle to (re)introduce Sarah Jane. The acting was superb and really touching. The "goodbye" to Sarah Jane was so well acted, it made, I suggest, more eyes than mine a little damp.
Incidentally, this poor lonely Dr Who has a grand-daughter - Susan. Unless, of course, she perished with the last of the Time Lords! I certainly don't remember any reference her being mentioned when the Time Lords died.
Reunion Opens and Heals Wounds...
mikethec2 May 2006
Warning: Spoilers
First impression: Wow.
Second impression: (after wiping up drool) OMG!
This has easily become my favorite episode of the entire series. As others have said, this episode touches on many things on so many different levels. And, let's not forget: It's got Sarah Jane Smith and K9 in it!!!
It is telling that the Doctor stopped himself from saying he loved Sarah Jane Smith. I'm certain he was both a bit embarrassed and not quite sure of the territory he was in.
Context matters, and I'm quite certain the Doctor, of all people, is aware of this.
It is wonderful to see (at last) what life after the Doctor is like for companions. For those familiar with the Hitchhiker's Guide series of books, you'll understand how quite Trisha McMillion-like Sarah Jane Smith had become, throwing herself into her work and never really allowing herself to pursue a romantic life because of holding out for a life (and, apparently, a love) that would never be realized.
And Micky's comment about "Whoa, mate. The misses and the ex. Every man's worst nightmare!" I almost fell out of my chair!!! This series has it's moments, and most important: they're worth watching!
Second impression: (after wiping up drool) OMG!
This has easily become my favorite episode of the entire series. As others have said, this episode touches on many things on so many different levels. And, let's not forget: It's got Sarah Jane Smith and K9 in it!!!
It is telling that the Doctor stopped himself from saying he loved Sarah Jane Smith. I'm certain he was both a bit embarrassed and not quite sure of the territory he was in.
Context matters, and I'm quite certain the Doctor, of all people, is aware of this.
It is wonderful to see (at last) what life after the Doctor is like for companions. For those familiar with the Hitchhiker's Guide series of books, you'll understand how quite Trisha McMillion-like Sarah Jane Smith had become, throwing herself into her work and never really allowing herself to pursue a romantic life because of holding out for a life (and, apparently, a love) that would never be realized.
And Micky's comment about "Whoa, mate. The misses and the ex. Every man's worst nightmare!" I almost fell out of my chair!!! This series has it's moments, and most important: they're worth watching!
Reunion of classic and new Who
dkiliane12 February 2019
Warning: Spoilers
While the obvious nostalgic factor the episode was going for was a bit lost on me (since I didn't really watch classic Who) I could appreciate the themes the episode explored. The tension between former and current companions was interesting to see and drove some wonderful characterization. I find Mickey's characterization and his struggle for a place in Rose's life to be particularly fascinating.
The episode was also a bit of an eye-opener when it comes to some of the Doctor's deep seated flaws, especially regarding the expendability of his companions. The robo-dog K-9, though quite dated, had some genuinely funny and entertaining moments, too.
Though there were many good character moments, the episode falls way short in terms of plot and story, which was basically "meh." The story was sloppy and the villains uninteresting. And the special effects - - dear lord they are in such horrid need of a better special effects budget! Until they have the money for producing CGI that isn't cringy they need to learn how to effectively implement practical effects. It is really bringing down the production value and the overall rating of the episode. 7/10
The episode was also a bit of an eye-opener when it comes to some of the Doctor's deep seated flaws, especially regarding the expendability of his companions. The robo-dog K-9, though quite dated, had some genuinely funny and entertaining moments, too.
Though there were many good character moments, the episode falls way short in terms of plot and story, which was basically "meh." The story was sloppy and the villains uninteresting. And the special effects - - dear lord they are in such horrid need of a better special effects budget! Until they have the money for producing CGI that isn't cringy they need to learn how to effectively implement practical effects. It is really bringing down the production value and the overall rating of the episode. 7/10
Recommended for 1st time DW viewers
stomper13131323 March 2012
Quite easily one of my top five favorite episodes (if not #1). A good story. Poignant moments, cheeky moments, this episode has it. A satisfying tribute to the Classic DW with one of the most popular companions from the classic era. You can see from the moment that the Doctor first sees Sarah, that this is going to be something special. And it delivers. The initial byplay, the scene in the café where Sarah believes she did something wrong, to complaining about the navigation of the TARDIS (You'd think that with all the time The Doctor spends in England, he and the TARDIS would know the difference between Aberdeen and Croydon). But the big highlight for me was the "discussion" between Rose and Sarah in the classroom. What starts out as open antagonism becomes a funny, wonderful scene where the 'old' generation eventually bonds with the new. And I can't help but smile at the fact that Sarah Jane gets the last word in ("The. Lock. Ness. Monster!") This episode also provided the inspiration and impetus for "The Sarah Jane Adventures".
It's almost as if Rose actually wanted us to hate her!
zacpetch28 January 2015
Warning: Spoilers
This episode is one that helps bridge the gap between the modern and classic series and I commend it for that. I just wish that it hadn't been done in this way.
David Tennant's 10th Doctor is getting into his stride by this point and his relationship with companion Rose Tyler (Billie Piper) is taking shape. That's where things go wrong though as this episode seems to believe that Rose can do no wrong. It tells you explicitly that Rose is the best companion of them all and will not let the viewer decide that anyone else is entitled to that honour. How? By *urinating* all over the legacy left by Sarah Jane Smith (Elizabeth Sladen) of course!
She's one of the most popular characters of them all and deserved better treatment than this. It very unsubtly portrays Sarah as the ex to Rose as the current missus and even has Mickey (Noel Clarke) spell it out for us in those exact words. I don't like the way we are supposed to agree with Rose that Sarah is a threat to her, as if Rose somehow owns the Doctor! This is just a highlight of why Rose is by an indescribably long way the WORST character of them all to come from this show. The Doctor's over 900 years old, of course he has more friends than just you! Get over yourself, Rose, and stop being such a selfish b{tc4. Grow up and act your age.
It's good that Sarah got better treatment than this later on with her own spin-off show but when you see how the writers treat her here it's anyone's guess why she agreed to work with them ever again. Shame, this could and should have been wonderful.
David Tennant's 10th Doctor is getting into his stride by this point and his relationship with companion Rose Tyler (Billie Piper) is taking shape. That's where things go wrong though as this episode seems to believe that Rose can do no wrong. It tells you explicitly that Rose is the best companion of them all and will not let the viewer decide that anyone else is entitled to that honour. How? By *urinating* all over the legacy left by Sarah Jane Smith (Elizabeth Sladen) of course!
She's one of the most popular characters of them all and deserved better treatment than this. It very unsubtly portrays Sarah as the ex to Rose as the current missus and even has Mickey (Noel Clarke) spell it out for us in those exact words. I don't like the way we are supposed to agree with Rose that Sarah is a threat to her, as if Rose somehow owns the Doctor! This is just a highlight of why Rose is by an indescribably long way the WORST character of them all to come from this show. The Doctor's over 900 years old, of course he has more friends than just you! Get over yourself, Rose, and stop being such a selfish b{tc4. Grow up and act your age.
It's good that Sarah got better treatment than this later on with her own spin-off show but when you see how the writers treat her here it's anyone's guess why she agreed to work with them ever again. Shame, this could and should have been wonderful.
A beautiful, moving episode
drwhofan-471527 October 2018
Tennant's best episode so far
warlordartos9 March 2021
Warning: Spoilers
Now these creatures work for doctor who because they are explained a lot better about why they look that way, and the entire episode isn't revolved around showing that form. of course seeing Sarah Jane Smith again was icing on the cake. Explaining the difficulties of travelling with the doctor was a good idea, so that's another bonus, and I really did love both Sarah Jane and Rose laughing so hard at the way they doctor acts then him walking in wondering what is going on and they just laugh harder.
See also
Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews
